About this tour
Explore Orkney's second largest island on this eight-and-a-half-hour guided excursion. Small-group transport takes you across moorland and coastal terrain to encounter Neolithic monuments, wartime sites, and wildlife hotspots. Local guides navigate the landscape with personal insight rather than rehearsed commentary, uncovering stories embedded in Hoy's geology and human history. Ferry passage and a hot midday drink are included; bring your own packed lunch as island amenities are sparse.
Highlights
- Dwarfie Stane: Neolithic burial chamber carved into bedrock
- Rackwick's raw coastline and dramatic cliff formations
- Betty Corrigall's grave: poignant wartime memorial
- Lookout for golden eagles, sea otters, and grey seals
- Eight-seater vehicle comfort with panoramic stops
- Ferry transport to and from the island included
- Guides share lived experience of island life
What to expect
You'll travel by comfortable minibus and ferry to reach Hoy, then spend the day moving between viewpoints and walking routes across the island's interior and periphery. Expect a mix of gentle coastal strolls and moderate hill walking as your group follows a guide who knows these paths intimately and explains the archaeology, ecology, and social history you encounter. Weather on Orkney is changeable; bring waterproof layers. The pace is unhurried, with moments to sit and observe wildlife.
Good to know
Pack substantial food and water—no restaurants or shops are conveniently placed. Vehicle seats are 48–51 cm wide; if narrow seating concerns you, purchase an extra seat. Moderate fitness needed for walking terrain. Minibus departs on schedule; arrive early. Service animals welcome.
Frequently asked
- How long does Island of Hoy Day Trip take?
- Island of Hoy Day Trip runs for approximately 8h 30m.
- How much does Island of Hoy Day Trip cost?
- Prices start from AUD $210 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does Island of Hoy Day Trip run?
- This tour operates around United Kingdom. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs Island of Hoy Day Trip?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. New Forest National Park earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original New Forest National Park summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.